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Connor Bedard’s Contract Puts Chicago Blackhawks On The Clock

On Saturday, one day after his 21st birthday, Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks came to terms on an extension. It’s a five-year deal with a cap hit of $15 million per year. 

BREAKING NEWS: Connor Bedard And Blackhawks Agree To 5 Year ExtensionBREAKING NEWS: Connor Bedard And Blackhawks Agree To 5 Year ExtensionThe Chicago Blackhawks and Connor Bedard have agreed to a contract extension.

There was a lot of drama surrounding this contract, but it didn’t have much to do with negotiations. Bedard injured his shoulder during a summer skate, which complicated things, and there has been offer-sheet drama around the NHL. 

It is worth noting that Bedard signed for $3 million less than Anaheim Ducks forward Leo Carlsson, who signed a 5-year, $18 million offer sheet with the Philadelphia Flyers before Anaheim matched it. Bedard could have commanded that, or more, but he gave Chicago a break. 

On the flip side, this is the start of a competitive clock for the Chicago Blackhawks. When Connor Bedard’s new 5-year deal is up, he will be a 25-year-old unrestricted free agent. You’d think he is going to walk if the Blackhawks are still consistently a lottery team by that point. 

At that time, Bedard will likely have established himself as one of the best players in the NHL. The current wave of players in their prime will be starting to slow down, and this new generation will be entering their greatest years. 

The Blackhawks, specifically Kyle Davidson, believe in what they’ve seen from Bedard. There is internal confidence that he has the tools to lead the team for a long time. 

“Connor has continuously defied our expectations since being drafted, and has quickly established himself as an elite player in the NHL,” Davidson said. “He utilizes all aspects of his game to not only be a constant threat, but to make the players around him better every time he steps on the ice. Connor’s strong work ethic and determination to always improve his game has set an extraordinary standard for our young core, and we’re excited for the incredible impact he’ll have in this next chapter of Blackhawks hockey.”

If Kyle and his staff don’t have this team in a good spot by the fourth year of this deal, however, things will get ugly.

A no-move clause kicks in for the fifth year of this contract, so Bedard will then control the situation even more. If they start making the playoffs and showing the potential to make deep runs, then Bedard will be more likely to extend again on another long-term deal. 

Connor Bedard’s contract takes up 14.4 percent of the salary cap, which is about right for an NHL team’s top star. The fact that an offer sheet never entered the equation and he took less money than he could have gotten shows his commitment to the team that selected him first overall. 

That loyalty would wear off if the team doesn’t do right by him now when it comes to the talent surrounding him, and they have the next five years to make their case.

Next up for the Blackhawks when it comes to Bedard? For one, naming him the captain would go a long way. Bedard has already mentioned that as a challenge he welcomes in the next chapter of his career.

They also need to, over the next year or so, find him his true running mate when it comes to his wing. The plan is for Frank Nazar and Anton Frondell to play center, so getting Bedard a sniper on his line is a must. Is that player already in the organization, or will external options come into play? 

The first order of business is done with his newest contract following his entry-level deal. Now, the focus can go back to being the roster around Connor Bedard. Superstars are a must, but depth around them is as big a factor. 

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Cincinnati Reds vs. Colorado Rockies – Hunter Greene vs. Ryan Feltner

CINCINNATI, OHIO - JULY 10: Hunter Greene #21 of the Cincinnati Reds reacts after closing out the seventh inning of the game against the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park on July 10, 2026 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati defeated Chicago 4-0. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Cincinnati Reds got spanked by the Colorado Rockies on Saturday afternoon on a toasty day in Coors Field. Rhett Lowder simply couldn’t find a way to throw a ball past a single Rocky, eventually exiting after just 2.1 IP having allowed 11 hits and 8 earned runs.

As a result, the Cincinnati bullpen got an early taxing right out of the gate in the second half. So, they’ll be hoping that the Hunter Greene they get on Sunday is the same guy who fired 7.0 IP of scoreless, 12 strikeout ball in his most recent outing against the Chicago Cubs.

The bullpen needs it. The team itself needs it, as they sit just 44-53 and in obvious seller mode with the MLB trade deadline just two weeks away. If they can’t get things rallied immediately, well, we’re going to see this team torn apart and rebuilt in what’s become a fine tradition with this front office.

Ryan Feltner will start for the Rockies in Sunday’s series finale, with first pitch set for 3:10 PM ET. That’s just about the exact same time as the World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina, but certainly you’ll be watching a Reds/Rockies game in July instead.

Here’s how both clubs will line up to begin this one:

Today’s Lineups

REDSROCKIES
Elly De La Cruz – SSJake McCarthy – CF
Sal Stewart – 1BMickey Moniak – LF
JJ Bleday – RFHunter Goodman – C
Spencer Steer – 2BTJ Rumfield – 1B
Nathaniel Lowe – DHWilli Castro – SS
Eugenio Suarez – 3BKyle Karros – 3B
Tyler Stephenson – CTroy Johnston – DH
TJ Friedl – LFTyler Freeman – RF
Dane Myers – CFEdouard Julien – 2B
Hunter Greene – RHPRyan Feltner – RHP
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Report: Risacher traded to Mavs, Hawks receive Dort, Ryan Nembhard

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 30: Zaccharie Risacher #10 of the Atlanta Hawks handles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Round One Game Six of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The first overall number one pick in the draft lottery era for the Hawks will be calling another city home. Shams Charania of ESPN broke the news about Zaccharie Risacher:

Risacher was drafted first overall after the Hawks unexpectedly won the draft lottery in 2024. After finishing second in rookie of the year voting in 2024-25, last season was a different tale. Risacher averaged just 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game.

The Hawks also sent out two second-round picks and received NBA champion forward Luguentz “Lu” Dort and young defensive-minded guard Ryan Nembhard from the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks respectively.

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Dallas Mavericks acquire Zaccharie Risacher in three-team trade with Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 30: Zaccharie Risacher #10 of the Atlanta Hawks handles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Round One Game Six of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

According to a blockbuster report from ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Dallas Mavericks have traded for Zaccharie Risacher, former number one overall pick in the 2024 draft by the Atlanta Hawks. The Mavericks are trading Ryan Nembhard to the Hawks.

While the bigger news for NBA fans at large is probably the Lu Dort of it all, but Dallas taking a shot on a disappointing pick in Risacher is interesting. The Mavericks will accept Risacher into their salary cap using the trade exception created by the Anthony Davis trade to the Washington Wizards earlier this year.

According to Jake Fischer, the Mavericks are sending a 2027 pick that they received from the Chicago Bulls at some point.

Risacher joins the Mavericks after two seasons with the Atlanta Hawks where he made a marginal impact. Through 142 career games he’s averaging 11 points, just under four rebounds, and an assist per game in 24 minutes of action. His shooting splits are solid, a career 35% from three-point range, but he also doesn’t get to the line much while also shooting a subpar 69% from the charity stripe. His role decreased last season as he played fewer minutes and games, and it became clear prior to the trade deadline that Risacher’s days in Atlanta had an expiration date.

Where he fits in Dallas is anyone’s guess. The French forward WAS picked number one overall, but even at the time it didn’t entirely make sense as to why Atlanta picked him.

Considering what it took to trade for Risacher, this trade has to go down as a pretty spectacular, low-stakes gamble. The Mavericks essentially sent a second-rounder in next year’s draft away for a shot at a former number one overall pick. If he doesn’t work out, then next year you decline his team option. This is good business.

I’ve often whined about past team’s and the lack of pedigree, well the Mavericks enter the year with three number one overall players on their roster for the second straight season. That’s nothing to scoff at. With a few veterans still likely available to be traded, the Dallas offseason is likely not done yet.

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PIRATES AT GUARDIANS, discussion: Cantillo vs. Skenes

CLEVELAND, OH - JULY 18: Cleveland Guardians catcher Patrick Bailey (16) dumps the Gatorade bucket on Cleveland Guardians second baseman Travis Bazzana (37) after Bazzana hit a walk-off 2-run home run during the ninth inning of game 2 of the Major League Baseball interleague doubleheader between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cleveland Guardians on July 18, 2026, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Here’s the Pirates’ lineup:

Here’s the Guardians’ lineup:

Let’s go, Guardians!

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Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cleveland Guardians: Paul Skenes vs. Tanner Bibee

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 12: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches in the first inning during the game against the Milwaukee Brewers at PNC Park on July 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cleveland Guardians, July 19, 2026, 1:40 p.m. ET

The Pittsburgh Pirates are finishing off their first series of the season’s second half as they take on the Cleveland Guardians in a Sunday afternoon game.

The Battle of the Aces in today’s matchup, as Paul Skenes takes the mound for the Pirates. He is struggling this season with an 8-8 record, but his 3.57 ERA is still relatively sound. Skenes has won his last two starts, including his most recent game against the Milwaukee Brewers on July 12. He pitched 5.1 innings, giving up three hits and two runs in Pittsburgh’s 14-5 victory over Milwaukee. A 10-run fourth inning gave the Pirates everything they needed to coast. He only logged 82 pitches, so he could have gone further if he needed to.

The Guardians are going with their opening-day starter, Tanner Bibee, who has also struggled this season. Bibee is 3-9 with a 3.90 ERA, but he grabbed a win in his last start against the Miami Marlins on July 11. He pitched 6.2 innings, gave up five hits and one earned run in a 4-1 victory. The Guardians are 6-14 in games where Bibee pitches, which is not what you want from your best pitcher. The Pirates will try to continue that trend against the Guardians this afternoon.

Location: Progressive Field, Cleveland, OH

Broadcast: KDKA AM/FM, Sportsnet Pittsburgh

Pitching Matchup: Paul Skenes (8-8, 3.57 ERA) vs. Tanner Bibee (3-9, 3.90 ERA)

BD community, this is your gameday thread. Chime off in the comments section below.

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Cardinals vs Diamondbacks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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The Arizona Diamondbacks host the St. Louis Cardinals in the rubber match of a three-game weekend series in Phoenix. Heading into the final series before the All-Star break, Arizona was 13-28 against winning teams, getting outscored by 1.9 runs a game.

However, they outscored the Dodgers 23-8 in a three-game sweep and now look to win a series over the Cardinals as -117 moneyline favorites to start the stretch run. 

My Cardinals vs. Diamondbacks predictions and MLB picks call for Arizona’s hot streak to continue with a win on Sunday, July 19.  

Who will win Cardinals vs Diamondbacks today: Diamondbacks -1.5 (+176)

The Arizona Diamondbacks aren’t winning games these days. They're beating teams up. 

Saturday’s win over the St. Louis Cardinals was the fourth time in five games that the Diamondbacks have scored five or more runs. Meanwhile, they’ve allowed three or fewer in five of six.

They’ll be facing Andre Pallante, who has allowed opponents to hit .313 over the past month.

Four of the 10 Diamondbacks batters to face Pallante have career OPS’ over 1.000 against him, and combined, Arizona’s roster has hit .341 against him.

The Cardinals aren’t scoring enough to keep up. The run-line odds seem very favorable. I’d give up the runs as long as I’m better than +150.

Covers COVERS INTEL: After throwing his fastballs 55% of the time last year, Eduardo Rodriguez is below 48% this season. Not being able to count on seeing it has made it harder to hit. Opponents are hitting .196 against the four-seamer, down 91 points from last year.

Cardinals vs Diamondbacks Over/Under pick: Under 9.5 (-137)

Even with the Diamondbacks reaching five runs fairly regularly, neither team has been posting many Overs. Arizona has done it just three times in the last 10, while the Cardinals have gone Over just twice in that span.

Arizona lefty Rodriguez just made his first All-Star team in his eleventh MLB season. His fastball, breaking stuff, and offspeed pitches are all in the top quartile in MLB for run value.

He’s throwing his changeup 27% of the time, up from 20%, and foes are hitting .195 against that. The curve (.212 average against) has also seen a big jump in usage.

Like Pallante, Rodriguez avoids solid contact rather than overwhelming batters. Arizona and St. Louis both have above-average ground-ball rates, so this should be a low-scoring, low-pitch count clash.

Shawn Krest's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 26-35, -5.72 units
  • Over/Under bets: 36-20, +3.57 units

Cardinals vs Diamondbacks weather

The Chase Field dome will be closed today, so weather will not be an issue in this game.

Cardinals vs Diamondbacks odds

  • Moneyline: Cardinals +113 | Diamondbacks -117
  • Run line: Cardinals +1.5 (-186) | Diamondbacks -1.5 (+178)
  • Over/Under: Over 9.5 (+127) | Under 9.5 (-133)

Cardinals vs Diamondbacks trend

The Arizona Diamondbacks have only hit the Game Total Over in 15 of their last 50 games (-19.00 Units / -34% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Cardinals vs. Diamondbacks.

How to watch Cardinals vs Diamondbacks and game info

LocationChase Field, Phoenix, AZ
DateSunday, July 19, 2026
First pitch4:10 p.m. ET
TVCardinals.TV, DBacks.TV
Cardinals starting pitcherAndre Pallante
(10-6, 3.96 ERA)
Diamondbacks starting pitcherEduardo Rodriguez
(8-3, 2.29 ERA)

Cardinals vs Diamondbacks latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

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Game 99 Game Day Thread – Texas Rangers @ Atlanta Braves

Jul 18, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Texas Rangers second baseman Nicky Lopez (33) watches his sacrifice bunt against the Atlanta Braves during the seventh inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Texas Rangers @ Atlanta Braves

Sunday, July 19, 2026, 12:35 PM CDT (105.3 The Fan / Rangers Sports Network)

Truist Park

RHP Nathan Eovaldi vs. RHP Grant Holmes

Today’s Lineups

RANGERSBRAVES
Joc Pederson – DHDrake Baldwin – C
Wyatt Langford – LFOzzie Albies – 2B
Josh Jung – 3BMatt Olson – 1B
Brandon Nimmo – RFMichael Harris – CF
Jake Burger – 1BMauricio Dubon – LF
Ezequiel Duran – SSDominic Smith – DH
Evan Carter – CFAustin Riley – 3B
Nicky Lopez – 2BJim Jarvis – SS
Kyle Higashioka – CBrewer Hicklen – RF
Nathan Eovaldi – RHPGrant Holmes – RHP

Go Rangers!

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Mets at Phillies, 7/19/26: McLean vs Rangel

Jun 6, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Nolan McLean (26) throws a pitch during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images | David Frerker-Imagn Images

Mets lineup

A.J. Ewing – CF
Juan Soto – DH
Bo Bichette – 3B
Francisco Lindor – SS
Carson Benge – LF
Jared Young – 1B
Marcus Semien – 2B
Brett Baty – RF
Luis Torrens – C

SP: Nolan McLean – RHP

Phillies lineup

Trea Turner – SS
Kyle Schwarber – DH
Bryce Harper – 1B
Brandon Marsh – LF
Alec Bohm – 3B
Bryson Stott – 2B
J.T. Realmuto – C
Gabriel Rincones – RF
Justin Crawford – CF

SP: Alan Rangel – RHP

Broadcast info

First pitch: 1:35 PM EDT
TV: SNY
Radio: Audacy Mets Radio WHSQ 880AM, Audacy App, 92.3 HD2

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Sonny Gray steps on the mound to sustain Sox streak

May 13, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Sonny Gray (54) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images | Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

I’ve been with you the first three games of this weekend, let’s finish it out, shall we?

⚾️ First Pitch: 1:35pm — Fenway Park, Boston MA

📺 TV: NESN

📻 Radio: WEEI

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Dodgers vs Yankees Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight's MLB Game

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are slight road favorites against the New York Yankees, and I’m staying with the better offense.

Cam Schlittler is Cam Schlittler, but this is a brutal test against a Dodgers lineup built to punish his main flaw. I’m also taking the Under with two starters capable of limiting free traffic.

Here are my Dodgers vs. Yankees predictions and MLB picks for July 19.

Who will win Dodgers vs Yankees tonight: Dodgers moneyline (-115)

Cam Schlittler has shown few weaknesses, but barrel damage is one that has started to appear. For strikeout-heavy aces, there is always a tradeoff for all of the high velocity stuff you've shown and that's usually hard-hit balls.

Schlittler has allowed an 8.3% barrel rate (bottom 40 percentile), and that issue has surfaced in two of his last three starts: eight earned runs and six homers against the Washington Nationals and Detroit Tigers, two top-five barrel-rate offenses.

You don't need me to tell you that this could be a big issue against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto counters with a 6.5% barrel rate and low hard-hit rate against New York’s homer reliant offense. I'd play this to -140.

Covers COVERS INTEL: Cam Schlittler’s walk rate sits at just 5.3%, a key reason I prefer the full-game Under.

Dodgers vs Yankees Over/Under pick: Under 9 (-110)

I like the Under. Schlittler’s 29% strikeout rate and low walk rate gives the New York Yankees a way to manage traffic, even against baseball’s most complete offense.

Yamamoto is the bigger reason I like the number. He has allowed a .280 xwOBA with a 6.5% barrel rate, and his pitch mix makes it tough for hitters to sit on one shape.

The Yankees can hit mistakes (they are the Yankees after all), but sustained rallies are less likely if Yamamoto keeps them guessing. Good to -120.

Chris Hatfield's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 39-35, +6.47 units
  • Over/Under bets: 43-33, +12.32 units

Dodgers vs Yankees weather

Dodgers vs Yankees odds

  • Moneyline: Los Angeles -115 | New York +100
  • Run line: Los Angeles +1.5 | New York -1.5
  • Over/Under: Over 9 | Under 9

Dodgers vs Yankees trend

The New York Yankees have hit the Team Total Under in 18 of their last 25 games (+10.20 Units / 33% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Dodgers vs. Yankees.

How to watch Dodgers vs Yankees and game info

LocationYankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
DateSunday, July 19, 2026
First pitch7:20 p.m. ET
TVNBC/Peacock
Dodgers starting pitcherYoshinobu Yamamoto
(9-6, 2.85 ERA)
Yankees starting pitcherCam Schlittler
(9-5, 2.05 ERA)

Dodgers vs Yankees latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

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Chicago Cubs vs. Minnesota Twins preview, Sunday 7/19, 1:20 CT

Sunday notes…

  • SPLITTING THE DIFFERENCE: This is the 15th of the Cubs’ 32 series in which they have split the first two games. They are 7-7 in third games, including 5-4 after losing, then winning. But they lost the only two such previous games at Wrigley Field, to the Nationals on March 29 and to the Giants on June 7. They won the two rubber games at home after having won, then lost, vs. the Angels on April 1 and the Rockies on June 17. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • SERIES NOTE: The Cubs are 15-14-2 in series before this one. They have won the last two and are 7-1-1 in the last nine. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • THE LONG BALL: The Cubs won yesterday despite giving up two homers and hitting one. They are 15-25 when they have hit fewer homers than their opponent, 20-12 with the same number and 20-6 with more. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • TODAY IN CUBS HISTORY: Four Cubs home runs (Shawon Dunston, Gary Matthews, Dave Martinez and Ryne Sandberg), three of them off former Cub Mike Krukow, led the team to an 11-6 win over the Giants at Wrigley Field. It happened 40 years ago today, Saturday, July 19, 1986.

Cubs lineup:

Twins lineup:

Shōta Imanaga, LHP vs. Zebby Matthews, RHP

As I wrote in the mid-season grades article, Shōta Imanaga’s year can be split into three parts:

First nine starts: 2.32 ERA, 0.902 WHIP, 59 strikeouts and only five HR allowed in 54.1 innings
Next four starts: 10.80 ERA, 1.524 WHIP, 12 (!) home runs allowed in 21.2 innings
Next six starts: 2.81 ERA, 1.219 WHIP, 31 strikeouts and five HR allowed in 32 innings

Now you tell me which one is the real Shōta. He’s been pretty good apart from that four-start interregnum. Hopefully he can continue the good pitching he’s had over the last six.

Last year against the Twins, July 8, 2025 at Target Field, Imanaga held them to five hits and two runs in six innings. That’d work today, I think.

Fun fact: Zebby Matthews’ full name is Daniel Zebulon Matthews.

This is Matthews’ first full year in the Twins’ rotation. He has had his moments of success this year, but over his last two starts he’s allowed eight runs in 10.2 innings, with six walks and three home runs allowed. Warm up your bats, Cubs hitters!

Matthews has never faced the Cubs or anyone on their active roster. So it should be an interesting afternoon.

Here is the weather forecast for the area around Wrigley Field.

Today’s game is on Marquee Sports Network.

Here is the complete MLB.com live streaming page for today.

MLB.com Gameday

Baseball-reference.com game preview

Please visit our SB Nation Twins site Twinkie Town. If you do go there to interact with Twins fans, please be respectful, abide by their individual site rules and serve as a good representation of Cub fans in general and BCB in particular.

The 2026 game discussion procedure has been changed, so please take note.

You’ll find the game preview, like this one, posted separately on the front page two hours before game time (90 minutes for some early day games following night games).

At the same time, a StoryStream containing the preview will also post on the front page, titled “Cubs vs. (Team) (Day of week/date) game threads.” It will contain every post related to that particular game.

The Live! (formerly “First Pitch”) thread will still post at five minutes to game time. It will also post to the front page. That will be the only live game discussion thread. After the game, the recap and Heroes and Goats will also live on the front page as separate posts.

You will also be able to find the preview, Live! thread, recap and Heroes and Goats in this section link. The StoryStream for each game can also be found in that section.

Discuss amongst yourselves.

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Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani won’t pitch for ‘some time’ because of left knee irritation

NEW YORK (AP) — Shohei Ohtani won’t make his next scheduled start on the mound because of left knee irritation and isn’t expected back in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ rotation for a while.

The two-way superstar received a lubricant injection in the knee just before the All-Star break last week and had been expected to pitch Wednesday in Philadelphia against the Phillies.

Ohtani, however, still didn’t feel 100% while playing catch this weekend, so he and the Dodgers decided not to even test the knee with a bullpen session.

The four-time MVP hasn’t pitched since July 3, and it’s unclear when he might return to the mound.

“I would say that it’s going to be some time,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Sunday before his team’s doubleheader against the New York Yankees. “It’s not going to be a day-to-day thing.”

Roberts reiterated that Ohtani feels no pain in the knee when hitting. The slugger was in the starting lineup for Sunday’s opener, batting leadoff as the designated hitter, and Roberts said he’d wait to see about playing Ohtani in the nightcap, too.

“We just want to continue to give it the best chance to kind of get in a good spot,” Roberts said. “As he said, as we feel, it’s the pitching and the torque on landing on that leg. That kind of gets it upset. So I think that hitting doesn’t do that. So I think that for us, we’re trying to give it as much time as possible.”

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James Harden says that Cavs potentially adding LeBron James is ‘the plan’

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 31: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers defends LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the game on March 31, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

LeBron James’s free agency continues as he decided not to reveal any decision at his scheduled events at Fanatics Fest this weekend.

While LeBron didn’t make any announcement at Fanatics Fest, other players in attendance this weekend were asked about the possibility of James joining their team. One of those was Cleveland Cavaliers point guard James Harden.

“That’s the goal, that’s the plan,” Harden said when asked by ESPN Brazil if he could envision a trio of himself, Donovan Mitchell, and LeBron. “Hopefully, we’ll see [that] in the next few days.”

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“I hope he comes to Cleveland,” Harden said in a separate interview about James this weekend. “It’s a perfect storybook finish. He’s at home for his last year. But you know, he’s going to decide. He’s smart enough. I don’t think anybody’s pitches are going to move him.”

Harden comes across as quite confident in both clips that James could be returning to Cleveland. In many ways, it felt reminiscent of how head coach Kenny Atkinson and Mitchell have handled questions about LeBron in the last week.

That said, the Cavs are hardly the only team that seems confident about LeBron signing with them. Gilbert Arenas mentioned at a live recording of his podcast that he talked about the possibility of James signing with the Miami Heat with Giannis Antetokounmpo, saying, “They’re thinking in Miami that they’re getting him.”

Additionally, the Philadelphia 76ers are pulling out all the stops to let James know they would love to add him to their team. It’s been reported that Sixers owner, Josh Harris had a “brief, friendly conversation” with LeBron during Fanatics Fest this weekend.

We’ll see how this plays out. LeBron is reportedly getting much closer to a decision. Whether or not we get an announcement of that in the coming days remains to be seen.

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Dodgers vs. Yankees game chat

Jul 18, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman (5) waits to take batting practice following the postpoment of the game against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Two games on the docket on Sunday. First game of the split doubleheader has Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the mound, with a bullpen game coming for the nightcap.

Get ready for Orel Hershiser on your television calling Dodgers games on two different networks today.

Saturday game info

  • Teams: Dodgers at Yankees
  • Game 1 of split doubleheader
  • Ballpark: Yankee Stadium, New York
  • Start time: 9:35 a.m. PT
  • TV: SportsNet LA
  • Radio: AM 570 (English), KTNQ 1020 AM (Spanish)

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